Mature Student Numbers Rising

The number of university applications from mature and non-school leavers has risen by a might 30% last year.

Figures released today show that with the onset of recession and widespread unemployment, university has become a tempting prospect.

Among other figures, the data shows a 26% rise in people aged 23 or over applying as mature students, up from 10,005 a year ago to 12,677.

Overall entrants through the Central Applications Office (CAO) seeking third level places by the February 1 deadline was up 6% in total on the same time last year.

A spokesperson for training and education group Learning Ireland confirmed a record number of students had applied for third level courses this year – which was up by more than 12% on the 2008 figure.

"A quarter of applicants have put arts as their first choice - while there has been a significant decline in the numbers seeking places on construction-related courses.

"The Higher Education Authority says it expects more college places than ever before will be offered this autumn - with two out of every three 18-year-olds going on to study at third level."

Meanwhile, pressure is mounting for an end to the restriction on the number of places in Post Leaving Certificate courses at 31,500 to satisfy rapidly rising demand for training.

(DW/BMcC)